Originally Posted by
Arrowana
On my Ironman, I've got mostly stock parts, but switched out the wheelset for one with a 9-speed cassette (and naturally a new chain), just switched to Suntour Barcons, plus new tires, saddle and bar tape. It all works great together. Replacing some parts doesn't necessarily mean you have to replace everything else, especially if you go with friction shifting.
I'm uncertain if I'm happy with 6 speeds or if I'm not. My tires are new Bontragers, and the bar tape appeared to be recently installed. I haven't experienced much saddles, so I can't really say about my Schwin saddle. That said, I go prefer the SIS shifting. I'm not saying I will replace everything all at once, but I would like to know my options and upgrade at my own pace.
On another note, my gear and brake cables are oxidized and seem old and slightly frayed at the ends, but are operational. When would I really need to replace them?